"Skirmishers with bayonets?" Topic

I have some lovely Minifigs in firing poses both standing and kneeling to represent the Dutch jagers. They all have bayonets fixed. Should I nip them off or was it common practice to fix the bayonet even when you were not expected to close combat?

I would think that it depended on how close the enemy was Normally it is very difficult to shoot accurately with a fixed bayonet and also in moving through any type of rough ground or vegetation So it would be up to you

Not sure about the Dutch troops, the French usually had bayonets fixed (for selfdefence against cavalry), the Prussian had their bayonets fixed at all times as many troops did not even have a proper scabbard for it. The British might have keep the bayonet in the scabbard untill actually preparing for a charge or forming in close formation (but I don't know British drill very well)

I am sure the Rifles did not fix bayonets (Swords really) unless needed. Hindered loading.

Russians loved fixed bayonets. Even for jäger. Some units stored the bayonet frog/sling to preserve it for parades and inspections- and just left the bayonet on all the time.

- Sasha

The Russians, Spanish, Prussians among most all the Napoleonic armies used bayonets skirmishing…particularly the Russians.

I cut bayonets on skirmishers.

Me too.

I don't consciously remove bayonets, but figures with broken-off bayonets tend to get painted as lights.